Angela and Rodney have been married for seven years, and they've always dreamed of having their own place. Living in an apartment has been challenging, especially with an off-site landlord and no yard to enjoy. With two cats and two dogs, their space felt cramped.
Since they wanted to move, they had been searching for years, touring houses, browsing the internet, and hoping to find the perfect rental that could eventually become their forever home. But despite all their efforts, they had no luck.
This spring, everything changed. Angela and Rodney applied to Habitat for Humanity of Southeast Ohio to build and buy their own home, and they were selected as a partner family! Since Fairfield County has a long waiting list, they were offered a home in Zanesville, and they decided to relocate to finally own their own house.
As part of the Habitat for Humanity program, homeowners must put in "sweat equity," working to help build their own home or assist with another home. Angela and Rodney are earning their hours by working at the Re-Store in Lancaster, which helps to fund Habitat’s building projects. Rodney does everything from unpacking to mowing, while Angela spends time sweeping, cleaning, and stuffing envelopes. When asked about the work, Rodney said he liked knowing they were putting in the effort to earn their home.
Owning a home comes with new responsibilities, but Angela and Rodney are ready. They've already planned out their chores—Rodney enjoys mowing and being outside, so he's excited to take care of their yard and even host yard sales. Angela can't wait to have more space and have her own washer and dryer instead of going to the laundromat. Both of them are thrilled about the future and the adventures that come with their new home.
